Laos

Laos is poor and run-down, with many Laotians living off agriculture. Since the success of the communist revolution in 1975, the country has been run with a strict hand by the then revolutionary party. The media are controlled by the state and criticism of the one-party government is not tolerated. In addition to poverty and the difficult political situation, the country literally has a highly explosive problem. More bombs fell on Laos during the Vietnam War than on Vietnam itself. There is talk of 250 million cluster bombs, around 30% of which did not detonate. Uncleared bombs and minefields are still killing or crippling people.

Freedom of religion is enshrined in the constitution of the Buddhist country, but Christians often face discrimination and persecution. This is particularly the case in rural areas, where Buddhism is even more deeply rooted. In some cases, the authorities only prohibit Christians from living their faith freely, but there are also expulsions, abductions and even murders of Christians. The price of their faith remains high.

ACP has been working together with its local partner in Laos since 1990. The aim remains to support, educate and advance the persecuted church.